On February 9 and 10, 2010, fifty leaders from colleges, universities, corporations, professional associations, and state networks met in Tempe, Arizona, to discuss cloud computing and the impending shift in the mix of where infrastructure, applications, and services are sourced. This group identified a set of actions that colleges and…

Discusses strategies for providing students with current computer software technology including acquiring previous versions of software, obtaining demonstration software, using student versions, getting examination software, buying from mail order firms, buying few copies, exploring site licenses, acquiring shareware or freeware, and applying for…

Because the cost of computer software is expensive and hardware costs are going down, it is important to choose software systems that are independent of hardware. (JOW)

Considers pros and cons of using personal computers or microcomputers in a library and information setting. Highlights include discussions about the physical environment, security, effects on users, costs in terms of time and money, micro-mainframe links, and standardization considerations. (Author/LRW)

Describes the components, costs, and capabilities of several desktop publishing systems, and examines their possible impact on work patterns within organizations. The text and graphics of the article were created using various microcomputer software packages. (CLB)

Comments on Kerwin et al.'s article on Covariance Structure analysis (LISREL). Concerns include assumptions about requirements for causal inferences, psychometric properties of measurement scales, validity of the indicators of each latent variable, completeness of the structural model, linearity of the latent variables, and the joint distribution…

Describes a typical configuration for a local area network (LAN), and discusses positive and negative factors to be considered when deciding whether to implement a LAN in a library setting. Situations in which LANS are or are not appropriate are identified, and alternatives to LANs are described. (CLB)

Discusses online searching with the new 9600 baud rate and describes test searches on the BRS, Data-Star, LEXIS, and Dow Jones databases through three packet-switching networks: US Sprint, MEADNET, and TYMNET. Hardware and software are described, data communications equipment standards are discussed, and the impact of higher baud rates on pricing…

Before purchasing computer hardware, individuals must consider the costs associated with the setup and operation of a microcomputer system. Included among the initial costs of purchasing a computer are the costs of the computer, one or more disk drives, a monitor, and a printer as well as the costs of such optional peripheral devices as a plotter…

Discusses the impact of computers on the art community. Topics discussed include merging technology with art, full color graphics on personal computers, commercial painting software, graphic design, visual flexibility, programing, the computer as an art medium unto itself, cost factors, and benefits to art instructors. (LRW)

Discusses the use of local area networks (LANs) in libraries and offers suggestions for less expensive versions through resource sharing. Varying disk sizes are discussed, file sharing is described, printer sharing is explained, and combined hardware and software packages for connecting two to four computers are described. (20 references) (LRW)

Provides answers to nine common questions that day-care providers ask about computers and young children, such as (1) what can children learn with computers? (2) what are the advantages and disadvantages of having computers? (3) what types of affordably priced computers are best? and (4) what are the best software programs for young children? (MDM)

Describes cataloging software characteristics (data input, storage, retrieval, and output); outlines acquisitions software requirements (recommendations, data input, budgetary control, dispatch of orders, claims and cancellations, receipts, management information); presents examples of cataloging and acquisitions software; and discusses the nature…

Discusses the technological changes that will necessitate the prospective conversion of library data over the next decade and addresses the problems of converting data from obsolete personal computers to newer models that feature radically different operating systems. Three case studies are used to illustrate possible scenarios. (11 references)…

Presents the vision and accomplishments of Jan Jensen, of Jefferson County Public Schools, Colorado, who was selected as the first "National Library Media Specialist of the Year" by 3M and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT). Her suggestions for integrating technology into the curriculum and for winning…